An Overview of Security Cameras & Applications

Which type of Security Camera should I use?

A security camera can come in many different styles including dome, bullet, infrared and c-mount. The security camera that will work best for your application will depend on several factors such as whether you will use the security cameras inside or out, during the day, nighttime, or both.

Bullet style security cameras are the most popular. They can be used inside or out. These security cameras come in black and white or color and come with all of the required mounting hardware. The security camera casings are weather resistant and don't require added external protection. Most security cameras have a fixed 4mm lens that allows you to see facial features out to about 35 feet and provides a 70 degree angle of view. This is the widest angle you can have without distorting the picture. Click here for more information about bullet security cameras.

Resolution levels for black and white security cameras are about 400 lines, any higher and the benefits are minimal. For color cameras, the higher the resolution the better.

Infrared security cameras are also very popular as they allow an image to be seen in little or no lighting conditions. Most infrared security cameras are bullet style and can be used inside or out. The cameras have infrared lighting installed around the outer edge of the lens which allows the security camera to see in no light for up to 25 feet - even further with a little bit of light (like street lighting or an outside light.) Click here for more information about infrared security cameras.

A relatively new type of security camera to the market is the day / night security camera. These types of security cameras have an extra sensitive imaging chip which allows it to capture a good picture in low light situations without using infrared leds. This is especially handy in outdoor applications because infrared security cameras do not do well in outdoor housings. Unless the infrared security camera is installed flush up to the glass of the housing, the infrared lights can reflect off of the glass of the housing which degrades the image.

The advantage to c-mount security cameras is that the lens can be changed. You'll want a special camera lens if you need to see further than 35 ft. The color c-mount security camera allows you to change lenses on the camera giving you the ability to zoom into a particular area. Varifocal camera lenses allow you to adjust the focus from 5 to 50 mm. These lenses can be used inside only unless you put it in special housing for outdoor use. Click here for more details about C-Mount security cameras or Security Camera Lenses.

Dome security cameras basically provide a different look. Also, if you have any concerns about tampering, check out our Infared Armor Dome Security Camera. It will withstand a 10 lb sledgehammer blow and can be used inside or out, daytime or nighttime. Click here for more facts about dome security cameras.